Agave lophantha Quadricolour 'Springbokkie'

Common Names: Quadricolor Agave, Springbokkie, Four-Color Century Plant

Family: Asparagaceae

Origin and Habitat

Agave lophantha 'Quadricolor' 'Springbokkie' is a cultivated variety of Agave lophantha, native to the mountainous regions of northeastern Mexico, particularly in states like Tamaulipas and San Luis Potosí. In its natural habitat, it grows in rocky, well-drained soils on slopes or in semi-arid environments, often in full sun or light shade. The 'Springbokkie' cultivar, a compact form of the Quadricolor, is bred for ornamental use, emphasizing its vibrant, multi-colored foliage, and is well-suited for container gardening or xeriscapes.

Plant Description

Agave lophantha 'Quadricolor' 'Springbokkie' is a striking, small succulent forming a compact rosette, typically 15–20 cm tall and 20–30 cm wide, smaller than the standard Quadricolor. Its thick, fleshy leaves are arranged in a tight spiral, displaying four distinct colors: a pale green midstripe, dark green bands, creamy yellow margins, and reddish-brown teeth that intensify to pink or red under bright light or cold stress. The leaves, about 15–20 cm long, are rigid, slightly curved, and end in a sharp terminal spine, with small, reddish teeth along the edges. This cultivar rarely flowers, but when it does (after many years), it produces a tall stalk with greenish-yellow flowers, after which the main rosette dies, leaving offsets. Its vibrant variegation and petite size make it a collector’s favorite.

Care Instructions

Light

'Springbokkie' thrives in full sun to bright, filtered light to enhance its vivid coloration. Indoors, place near a south- or west-facing window with at least 6 hours of bright light. Outdoors, it prefers full sun but may need partial shade in extremely hot climates to prevent leaf scorching. Insufficient light reduces variegation intensity.

Watering

Water sparingly using the “soak and dry” method, ensuring the soil dries out completely between waterings. In spring and summer, water every 1–2 weeks, depending on climate. In winter, reduce to once every 3–4 weeks, as the plant is semi-dormant. Overwatering can cause root rot, especially in cold, wet conditions.

Soil

Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix with 50–70% mineral content like perlite, coarse sand, or pumice.

Temperature

Ideal temperatures range from 18°C to 29°C. It can tolerate brief drops to -7°C but requires protection from prolonged frost. In colder climates, grow indoors or in a greenhouse during winter, or use frost cloth for outdoor plants.

Additional Information

'Springbokkie' is a rare, highly sought-after cultivar due to its compact size and stunning quadricolor variegation. It propagates primarily through offsets (“pups”), which can be separated after drying for 1–2 days and replanted in well-draining soil. Seed propagation is possible but slow and less reliable, as seedlings may not retain the variegation. The plant is mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested, and its sharp spines require careful handling. It’s susceptible to agave snout weevil, scale, or mealybugs; monitor for brown spots or wilting and treat with insecticidal soap if needed. Perfect for small containers, rock gardens, or as a focal point in succulent arrangements, 'Springbokkie' adds bold, architectural beauty with minimal care.